The Sunwest Life - July 2023

CONTENTS

Lifestyle + Home + More

06 UNLEASH YOUR STRENGTH

Strength training is a form of exercise that improves muscular strength and endurance. The science behind how it works is facinating.

10 BRIANHEAD, UT

Brianhead offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, and summer tubing, making it a must-visit destination.

12 LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE

The cost of LTCI premiums depends on factors such as age, health, desired benefits, and benefit period. Learn more about why it is essential.

STARS, STRIPES, & CELEBRATION

16 STRESSED PLANTS

Tackle stressed out plants early by fertilizing plants. Learn how fertilizer can be the necessary “food” that your plants may be lacking.

21 EXCLUSIVE!

PRESERVING COMMUNITY VALUES

THE HISTORY OF FIREWORKS PAST PIONEER STORIES

Fireworks displays have evolved into a captivating form of entertainment, but how did they come to be?

Pioneers persevered, built homes, and laid the foundation for communities like St. George, showcasing the power of faith.

(435) 773-6456

www.swmlife.com

Living in one of SunWest Management’s communities is more than just having a place to rest your head — it’s where you call home. At SunWest Management, we know it’s a privilege to say, “Welcome home!”

In our wide variety of communities that meet virtually every need, the perfect fit for your lifestyle is just through the front door of your next dream home in one of our Southern Utah communities.

Lots of great things happened when Thomas Jefferson changed “for the pursuit of property” to “the pursuit of happiness” I take it as a door that we best step through, especially on the fourth of July. This is a day to take the time to reflect on the blessings and sacrifices Americans have made for this country. In doing this we also want to celebrate this day with our friends and family.

(DETAILS ON NEXT PAGE)

4th of july celebR ation

See more at www.sgcity.org/4th/

CARDIO HYBRID AT UNCLE SAM 4K

UNCLE SAM 4K

INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE

COME VISIT DOZENS OF VENDORS

INFLATEABLES ON WCSD BACK LAWN AREA

ST. GEORGE INDEPENDENCE CARNIVAL

NATIONAL ANTHEM FROM MAIN STAGE

LEARN A COLONIAL DANCE & DIY DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

FUN AND GAMES AT TIME SQUARE

MAIN STREET CHALK ART CONTEST

BINGO/ARTS AND CRAFTS

KARAOKE

FROZEN T SHIRT CONTEST

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

ST. GEORGE STAR SEARCH TALENT SHOW

DUCK RACES

HOT DOG EATING CONTEST

KONY COUNTRY CONCERT

FIREWORK SHOW

Unleash your Strength

By Ally Thompson

Strength training is a powerful tool that can transform not only your physical appearance but also your overall health and well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, incorporating strength training into your routine can help you unlock your true potential and unleash your inner strength. In this article, we will explore the science behind strength training and how it can benefit you.

When we talk about strength training, we are referring to a form of exercise that focuses on improving muscular strength and endurance. This type of training involves working against a resistance, whether it be weights, resistance bands, or even just your body weight. The goal is to stimulate the muscles, causing them to adapt and become stronger over time.

One of the key mechanisms behind strength training is muscle hypertrophy, which refers to the growth and increase in size of muscle fibers. When you perform strength exercises, the muscle fibers are broken down on a microscopic level. As your body repairs these fibers, they become thicker and stronger, leading to muscle growth. This process is known as muscle protein synthesis.

Strength training also has a profound effect on your metabolism. Muscle is a metabolically active tissue, meaning it burns more calories at rest compared to fat tissue. By increasing your muscle mass through strength training, you can boost your metabolism, which can aid in weight loss and weight maintenance. Additionally, strength training has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, and enhance overall cardiovascular health.

Moreover, strength training is not just about building muscles; it also plays a vital role in improving bone density. As you age, your bones become weaker and more susceptible to fractures. However, engaging in regular strength exercises can help prevent or slow down the loss of bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Now that we understand the science behind strength training and its numerous benefits, let’s dive into a workout split that can help you get started. Remember to consult with a fitness professional or your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Here’s a sample workout split to get you on the path to building strength:

Day 1 - Upper BoDy

Bench Press: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Bent-Over Rows: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Overhead Press: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Pull-Ups or Lat Pulldowns: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Dumbbell Bicep Curls: 3 sets of 10-12 reps

Tricep Dips or Skull Crushers: 3 sets of 10-12 reps

Day 2 - Lower BoDy

Squats: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Deadlifts: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Lunges: 3 sets of 10-12 reps (each leg)

Leg Press: 3 sets of 10-12 reps

Calf Raises: 3 sets of 12-15 reps

Day 3 - rest or active recovery

Examples: light cardio, stretching, or yoga

Day 4 - pUsh exercises

Incline Bench Press: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Shoulder Press: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Push-Ups: 3 sets to failure

Dumbbell Flyes: 3 sets of 10-12 reps

Tricep Pushdowns: 3 sets of 10-12 reps

Day 5 - pULL exercises

Deadlifts: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Lat Pulldowns: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Barbell Rows: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Hammer Curls: 3 sets of 10-12 reps

Cable Face Pulls: 3 sets of 10-12 reps

Day 6 - Lower BoDy

Squats: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Romanian Deadlifts: 3 sets of 8-10 reps

Step-Ups: 3 sets of 10-12 reps (each leg)

Leg Press: 3 sets of 10-12 reps

Seated Calf Raises: 3 sets of 12-15 reps

Day 7 - rest Day

Remember to do dynamic stretches properly before each workout, and gradually increase the weights and intensity over time as you become stronger and more comfortable with the exercises. Rest days are crucial for recovery and muscle growth, so listen to your body and give yourself adequate time to rest and rebuild.

Strength training is a journey that requires commitment, consistency, and patience. Embrace the process and enjoy the feeling of becoming stronger with each workout. Unleash your strength and discover the incredible benefits that it can bring to your life!

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US TODAY

bRianhead utah

unfoRGettable adVentuRe awaitS

By Ally Thompson

Brian Head, Utah, is a picturesque mountain town nestled in the stunning beauty of the Dixie National Forest. Known for its incredible outdoor recreational opportunities, Brian Head is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. In addition to winter sports, Brian Head offers many activities during the warmer months, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the nearby lakes and streams. The surrounding red rock landscapes provide a breathtaking backdrop, and visitors can explore the stunning trails that wind through the forested mountainsides.

When most people think of Brianhead, Utah, they envision a winter wonderland with its world-class ski slopes and powdery trails. However, this picturesque mountain town transforms into a summer paradise, offering an array of thrilling activities and breathtaking landscapes. From scenic hikes to adrenaline-pumping sports, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of the American West.

They even have holiday celebrations for the summer holidays.

exploRe hikinG tR ailS:

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of Brianhead is to embark on a hiking adventure. The area boasts a network of trails that cater to all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. Lace up your boots and venture into the alpine meadows and dense forests, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the mountains. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from Brianhead Peak, the highest point in the region, offering panoramic views that stretch for miles.

Mountain bikinG thRillS:

For the thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, Brianhead offers an exhilarating mountain biking experience. The rugged terrain and well-maintained trails make it a haven for bikers of all levels. Hop on your bike and navigate through the scenic trails, feeling the rush as you conquer challenging descents and conquer thrilling jumps. The vast network of trails provides options for cross-country rides, downhill adventures, and even family-friendly routes. No matter your skill level, Brianhead has the perfect trail waiting for you.

Relax in natuRe:

Brianhead isn’t just about heart-pumping activities; it’s also a place to unwind and connect with nature. Take a leisurely stroll along the serene lakes or find a peaceful spot to picnic amidst the picturesque surroundings. The cool mountain air and the soothing sounds of nature create the perfect ambiance for relaxation. Don’t forget to bring your fishing gear and try your luck at catching trout in the streams and lakes that dot the landscape.

RidGe RunneR Zip line:

Imagine yourself suspended in mid-air, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you fly through the sky, high above the peaks of Brian Head Resort. The Ridge Runner Zip Line offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the mountain vistas like never before. As you zoom along the 300 ft zipline, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of majestic mountains, verdant forests, and the vast expanse of nature below. It’s a perspective that will leave you aweinspired and truly connected to the raw beauty of this remarkable region.

thRillinG aValanche tubinG:

Summer tubing at Brian Head Resort offers an exciting opportunity to enjoy the rush of sliding down the mountain slopes. With multiple tubing lanes available, you have the freedom to ride solo, embracing the sensation of gliding through the air on your own terms. Alternatively, you can link up with friends and family, creating a chain of tubes for a shared adventure filled with laughter and camaraderie. The choice is yours, and the possibilities for fun are endless.

Brianhead, Utah, is not just a winter destination; it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s playground during the summer months. From hiking and mountain biking to zip-lining and off-road adventures, the options are endless. Embrace the beauty of nature, soak in the tranquility of the mountains, and create lifelong memories in this stunning mountain town. Summer at Brianhead is a testament to the diverse wonders this region has to offer, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a true escape into nature.

SHOULD YOU BUY

LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE?

By JC Hallman

The longer you live, the greater the chances you’ll need some form of long-term care. If you’re concerned about protecting your assets and maintaining your financial independence in your later years, long-term care insurance (LTCI) may be for you.

WHO NEEDS IT?

As we age, the odds increase that we’ll need some form of long-term care at some point during our lives. And with life expectancies increasing at a steady rate, the likelihood of needing long-term care can be expected to grow in the years to come.

BUT WON’T THE GOVERNMENT LOOK OUT FOR ME?

Medicare pays nothing for nursing home care unless you’ve first been in the hospital for 3 consecutive days. After that, it will pay only if you enter a certified nursing home within 30 days of your discharge from the hospital. For the first 20 days, Medicare pays 100 percent of your nursing home care costs. After that, you’ll pay $185.50 in 2021 per day for your care through day 100, and Medicare will pick up the balance. Beyond day 100 in a nursing home, you’re on your own--Medicare doesn’t pay anything.

If you’re at home, Medicare provides minimal short-term coverage for intermediate care (e.g., intravenous feeding or the treatment of dressings), but only if you’re confined to your home and the treatments are ordered by a doctor. Medicare provides nothing for custodial care, such as help with feeding, bathing, or preparing meals.

Medicaid covers long-term nursing home costs (including both intermediate and custodial care costs) but only for individuals who have low income and few assets (eligibility guidelines vary from state to state). You will have to use up most of your savings before you qualify for Medicaid, and aside from a small personal needs allowance, you will have to use all of your retirement income, including Social Security and pension payments, to pay for your care before Medicaid pays anything. And once you qualify for Medicaid, you’ll have little or no choice regarding where you receive care. Only facilities with Medicaid-approved beds can accept you, and your chances of staying in your own home are slimmer, because currently most states’ Medicaid programs only cover limited home health care services.

LOOKING OUT FOR YOURSELF

If you want to retain your independence, protect your assets, and maintain your standard of living while at the same time guaranteeing your access to a range of long-term care options, you may want to purchase LTCI.

This insurance might be right for you if you meet the following criteria:

• YOU’RE BETWEEN THE AGES OF 40 AND 84

• YOU HAVE SIGNIFICANT ASSETS THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO PRESERVE AS AN INHERITANCE FOR OTHERS OR GIFT TO CHARITY

• YOU HAVE AN INCOME FROM EMPLOYMENT OR INVESTMENTS IN ADDITION TO SOCIAL SECURITY

• YOU CAN AFFORD LTCI PREMIUMS (NOW AND IN THE FUTURE) WITHOUT CHANGING YOUR LIFESTYLE

Once you purchase an LTCI policy, your premiums can go up over time, but the rates can only rise for an entire class of policyholders in your state (i.e., all policyholders who bought a particular policy series, or who were within certain age groups when they bought the policy). Any increase must be justified and approved by your state’s insurance division.

Several factors affect the cost of your long-term care policy. The most significant factors are your age, your health, the amount of benefit, and the benefit period. The younger and healthier you are when you buy LTCI, the less your premium rate will be each year. The greater your daily benefit (choices typically range from $50 to $350) and the longer the benefit period (generally 1 to 6 years, with some policies offering a lifetime benefit), the greater the premium.

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IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

To find out more click HERE

Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. does not provide investment, tax, legal, or retirement advice or recommendations. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances.

To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.

These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable — we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2023.

blast from the past

the history behind firework show

By Ally Thompson

Fireworks displays have become an integral part of our celebrations, lighting up the night sky with a dazzling array of colors and patterns. Whether it’s New Year’s Eve, Independence Day, or any other festive occasion, the breathtaking spectacle of fireworks never fails to captivate audiences. But have you ever wondered about the history behind these explosive displays? Let’s take a journey back in time to explore the origins of firework shows.

Fireworks can be traced back to ancient China, where they were invented over 2,000 years ago during the Tang Dynasty. Initially, fireworks were developed as a result of alchemical experiments aimed at finding an elixir for immortality. These experiments involved mixing sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate, which produced a volatile combination that exploded when ignited.

Over time, the Chinese discovered that these explosive mixtures could be used for entertainment purposes. They began to create elaborate displays of fireworks to celebrate special occasions such as weddings, religious ceremonies, and military victories. These early firework shows consisted of simple pyrotechnic devices like bamboo sticks filled with gunpowder, which would explode and produce a loud bang.

The art of fireworks gradually spread beyond China’s borders, reaching the Middle East, Europe, and other parts of the world. Arab traders introduced fireworks to Europe in the 13th century, and they quickly became popular among the ruling elite. In the 16th century, Italian pyrotechnicians developed advanced techniques for creating more intricate and visually stunning fireworks.

During the Renaissance, fireworks displays became a symbol of power and prestige among European monarchs. Kings and queens would host grand firework shows to impress their subjects and foreign dignitaries. These displays featured increasingly complex designs, incorporating different colors, shapes, and patterns. Fireworks became an integral part of royal festivities, marking coronations, weddings, and other significant events.

In the 18th century, fireworks technology continued to evolve, thanks to scientific advancements and the exploration of new chemical compositions. Italian pyrotechnicians made significant contributions to the field, developing innovative techniques and introducing new elements, such as metallic powders, to create shimmering effects. The popularity of fireworks spread across Europe, with displays becoming more accessible to the general public.

The tradition of fireworks found its way to the Americas. Fireworks played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, to boost morale and celebrate victories. John Adams, the second President of the United States, famously wrote to his wife, expressing his desire for fireworks to be part of the annual celebration of America’s independence, which ultimately led to the creation of Independence Day fireworks displays.

The use of fireworks on the Fourth of July can be traced back to the early days of the country’s history. In 1777, Philadelphia held the first official celebration of Independence Day, which included the firing of 13 gunshots in honor of the 13 colonies. In the following years, fireworks became a more common feature of Independence Day celebrations. One of the most iconic symbols of this holiday is the use of fireworks.

Fireworks displays on the Fourth of July have become a beloved tradition, with many cities and towns across the country hosting large public displays. The displays often include a wide variety of fireworks, from traditional firecrackers and sparklers to more modern, high-tech pyrotechnics.

In the modern era, firework shows have become an integral part of major celebrations worldwide. International events like the Olympics and New

Year’s Eve celebrations showcase grand displays that attract millions of spectators. Technological advancements have pushed the boundaries of what is possible, with computer-controlled fireworks choreography, synchronized music, and intricate designs that create awe-inspiring spectacles.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that fireworks can be dangerous if not handled properly. It’s always recommended to attend public displays rather than doing it by yourself. Many states also have laws regulating the use and sale of fireworks, so be sure to check local regulations before setting off any fireworks.

stressed plants

how to care for them

By Nick Boulton

So what do those three numbers on fertilizers mean and how do you know what your plant needs? Keep in mind it’s important to plant healthy plants to start with, but fertilizing bushes, plants and trees provides additional nutrients that the surrounding soil may be lacking. Using fertilizer on young and newly transplanted bushes quickens their growth and a bush’s ability to establish itself into the landscape. Fertilizer can also help bushes with slower growth begin to sprout once again. All plants produce their own food through

photosynthesis and the application of fertilizer provides the very important and necessary ingredients and elements to help promote healthy, vigorous growth. In a forest, some of these elements are present in the soil since the debris from trees and plants are constantly falling off of other plants and trees and biodegrading into the soil providing nutrients to plants and trees. Within our yards, city and surrounding areas, we are constantly cleaning this debris up and not allowing it time to biodegrade into nutrients for our plants.

Most complete fertilizers are a mixture of three elements - nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), represented by a series of three numbers, such as 18-18-18. The numbers will tell the percentage of each element in the package by weight. So, an 1818-18 fertilizer would contain 18 percent each

of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. A 16-4-8 would contain 16 percent nitrogen, 4 percent phosphorus and 8 percent potassium. A fertilizer with 8 percent nitrogen and no phosphorus or potassium would read 8-0-0. You can really get into what each plant is going to need more of. Such as what to give a plant that blossoming compared to a plant that is just trying to stay green, or what to give a tomato plant to get large tomatoes to produce. Nitrogen is the element most used by plants and is extremely important for healthy plant growth. Phosphorus promotes photosynthesis and healthy root growth, and potassium assists with water retention and disease resistance.

Just as you would test the water in a pool or spa before applying chemicals to it, it’s important to test the soil pH before randomly picking fertilizer to ensure the fertilizer will be effective. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is the optimum level for the bush to absorb and draw nutrients from the fertilizer. A high or low soil pH may make the fertilizer ineffective or possibly toxic to the plant, which would in turn kill the plant. A soil test will determine if any changes need to be made before fertilizing. The best time to fertilize is in early spring as growing is beginning, or in Fall once the active growing period of plants have finished.

There are several types of fertilizer that can be used. Some of these are Water-Soluble, Granules, and Natural Fertilizers.

Water-soluble

Water-soluble blends are dissolved in water prior to application similar to sugar in your ice tea. The nutrients will surround the plant when poured into the soil. Typically this can cost less than slow-releasing versions. The downside of water-soluble nutrients is that it can be lost quicker through the soil with just a few inches of rain water or additional watering, thereby not providing as much nutrition to the plant as hoped for.

Granules

Granules or slow-release fertilizers provide ongoing nutrition throughout the season because the granules release nitrogen and other elements over time. By placing the granules in a wide circle around the bush it will slowly work it into the soil around the plant. As rainfall or regular watering occurs, the bush receives little amounts of fertilizer.

Natural fertilizers

Natural fertilizers such as compost, manure or vegetation can provide a slower rate than other fertilizers and they also provide many of the little elements that plants benefit from such as iron or zinc. The nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels tend to be lower in natural fertilizers, requiring more applications than other fertilizers. The benefit, however, is that natural fertilizers aid in improving the overall soil condition and can be added to the soil at any time. As well as it is a more natural way to supply your plants with the fertilizer that they may need.

Poor plant growth is not always a sure sign of a need to fertilize. Planting in the wrong location, too much sun, not enough sun, overwatering and under watering can all cause growth issues such as yellowing or fewer leaves than usual, limited twig growth or dying. Before fertilizing, try to determine if there is an underlying issue and then correct the issue of the plant performance. In addition, fertilizing during periods of stress may cause further harm to the plant. Never fertilize when plants show signs of stress, such as scorched or drooping branches, and do not apply any fertilizers during a period of drought unless the bush is well watered. Fertilizing when conditions are dry may cause root, stem and leaf damage if water is not consistently available and could in turn ultimately kill the plant.

If you still are not comfortable with doing this yourself, Lawn Doctor here in Southern Utah offers tree and shrub fertilization feedings to all your trees, plants and shrubs. With their help you can get the necessary “food” that they may be lacking for the right times of the year.

pioneer stories

By Brian Webster

In the spring of 1847, Mormon pioneers left their homes in Illinois and Missouri traveled to the Salt Lake Valley in Utah—though, then, the territory was part of Mexico. They faced many hardships on their journey. However, they persevered and eventually established a new home—our home—in Utah.

The first Mormon pioneer company was led by Brigham Young personally and consisted of 148 people. Young had been appointed president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1844 and believed that the Mormons needed to find a new place to live where they could practice their religion freely. He chose the Salt Lake Valley because it was remote and uninhabited. The pioneers traveled about 1,000 miles by wagon to reach the Salt Lake Valley.

The Mormon pioneers traveled west in a series of wagon trains. Each wagon train was made up of about 50 families. The journey took about 111 days. The pioneers packed their wagons with food, clothing, and other supplies. They also brought their livestock, including oxen, horses, and mules.

The journey across the country was long and difficult. The pioneers faced many challenges, including:

Harsh weather

The pioneers traveled during the summer when the weather was hot and dry. They also had to cross mountains and rivers, which was difficult and dangerous.

Disease

The pioneers were exposed to diseases such as cholera and dysentery. Many people died along the way.

Attacks by Native Americans

The pioneers were attacked by Native Americans on several occasions. Some people were killed or wounded.

Despite the hardships, the Mormon pioneers persevered. In the Salt Lake Valley, they immediately began to build homes and establish a new community. In fact, my great-great-grandpa, Perry Fitzgerald, was one of the scouts ahead of the main camp in July 1847. He entered the Salt Lake Valley on July 21st (a few days ahead of the company). Perry was one of the first families to settle the Draper area. The first log home he built in about 1851 is still standing as a monument in Draper Park. Additionally, the brick and plaster home he built in about 1870 (likely the oldest surviving brick home in Draper) is listed in the National Registry and remained in the family until 1999, when it was sold to the City. It is currently used by the Draper Chamber of Commerce. Though sidewalks have been added and the grounds updated, the home itself is in amazing condition and only needed minor renovation to maintain its original charm!

The area where SunRiver and Desert Color are now, was originally known as Atkinville. The area was settled by the William Atkin family in 1861. The area was primarily a farming community where cotton, wheat and corn were grown. It was also home to a sawmill, gristmill and a merc store. Atkinville was a popular place for recreation, being just outside of the main St George area. There were a number of swimming holes, fishing spots and hiking trails. The outpost was a thriving community for 100 years and had a population over 1000 at its peak. Ultimately, though, with a change in agricultural practices and lack of economic opportunities, through the mid1900s, the settlement was abandoned in the 1970s.

After further exploration of their surroundings, the Utah pioneers settled the St George area in 1861. Mary and Edward Bunker were among the first Mormon pioneers to settle the St. George area. They arrived in 1861 with their five children. The Bunkers were poor, but they were determined to make a new life for themselves in the desert. They built a small cabin and began to farm the land. They also worked hard to build a community. Mary Bunker was a midwife and a nurse, and she helped to care for the sick and injured. Edward Bunker was a carpenter and a blacksmith, and he helped to build the first schoolhouse and the first meetinghouse in St. George. The Bunkers were an inspiration to the other pioneers, and they helped to lay the foundation for the city of St. George.

The area around St. George was originally inhabited by the Paiute and Southern Ute tribes. The first European-Americans to visit the area were the Dominguez-Escalante expedition in 1776. In 1861, the harsh climate, lack of resources, and conflict with the Native Americans all proved challenging for the 19th century settlement. However, the community thrived. Most of the early settlers were Mormons, but the area also attracted other pioneers. The population of St. George grew to 2,000 people by 1870. And the population reached 10,000 around the year 1900. From there, it took 110 years (2010) to reach a population of 100,000. And now, in just 13 years, we’re knocking on the door of 200,000!!

No doubt, the early Utah pioneers faced many challenges. But they never gave up. I believe their story is a testament to the power of faith and the human spirit! Here’s to a meaningful and memorable Independence Day and Pioneer Day for All!

(This is a picture of the home taken in 2009)

PRESERVING COMMUNITY VALUES

By Joseph Brimer

One of the most misunderstood goals of community associations is “maintaining property values”. This line is perceived by many as just that, an empty rhetoric used to create and enforce rules. No doubt that rules are a part of it, but the honest intention runs much deeper than that. Like anything else in life, there are risks that threaten the value of associations. From unruly residents to changes in local or state law to even natural disasters, the list could go on forever. But the largest risk facing communities is a board that sacrifices the services or lifestyle of a community for the sake of assessment dollars.

A tangible way to understand the risk is by calculating the value of the community. If you take the average community size in Utah of 311 units, and multiply it by the current county median sales price of $500,000; you get over $155,000,000 in value. Now add in the value of common areas of $5,000,000, that gives you a total community value of $160,000,000. If a board makes a change in services or rules that drives a 1% change in value, that’s over $1,600,000 in value gone. Translation, that’s over $5,100 of your own value, poof, gone! And all for the sake of saving less than $60 a year!

“What’s the lifestyle of my community?” Well, what attracted you there and why did you buy? Common

answers you’d get would be the amenities available, the services offered and believe it or not, the rules. All of these boil down to one thing; a consistent resident experience. When a board decides to limit or remove an amenity or service the perceived value of the association plummets. Violations and conflict begin to rise when the one uniting piece (lifestyle) is removed since residents become disinterested and eventually move away. The rest of the community is blindsided by decreased services and below average value while they ask themselves; “what happened to my community”.

Efficiencies should be encouraged throughout community budgets, but cutting services to save a dollar or two should be avoided. Roughly 60-70% of community budgets are made up of hard costs like insurance, reserve contributions, or grounds maintenance that are already lean. Boards who thrash through the remaining areas of the budget begin to trip over dollars to pick up pennies. Or, like the example above, stumble over millions to pick up thousands. With the way the Washington County market is, and the inflation sustained over the last few years, it’s unreasonable to assure assessments can stay the same or decrease while maintaining services. Boards and residents alike need to reset their expectations when it comes to lifestyle services and assessments.

SUNWEST MANAGEMENT?

SunWest Management specializes in helping you develop a strong sense of community and promote harmony in your community. Prudent financial management, the best governance practices and maintenance strategies, yeah, we’re good at that too! We work with you to keep your property values high and your community thriving.

Our digital magazine is another way we share our passion and commitment to serve community associations everywhere. Read on for best practices, tips and offers to enhance your home and community.